LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Dolphins have been dealt a devastating blow with news that key forward Tom Gilbert has suffered a ruptured ACL in his right knee.
This injury, sustained during the club's trial match against the New Zealand Warriors, will require surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation process.
Gilbert's absence from the field will be sorely felt by the team, as he is not expected to return for at least nine to twelve months.
It is a cruel twist of fate for the young player, who already missed the entirety of the 2023 NRL season due to a shoulder injury.
Dolphins' Head of Performance, Jeremy Hickmans, expressed the team's disappointment, stating that Gilbert is effectively out for the entire 2024 season.
This setback is a stark reminder of the physical challenges and unpredictable nature of rugby league.
The Dolphins will need to regroup and find ways to compensate for Gilbert's absence as they tackle the upcoming season.